Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Naju mayor, Sri Lankan envoy discuss refugee workers’ rights
Naju Mayor Yoon Byung-tae, left, shakes hands with Sri Lankan Ambassador to Korea Savitri Panabokke in Naju, South Jeolla Province, Sunday. Courtesy of Naju City Government
By Kim Hyun-bin
Naju Mayor Yoon Byung-tae met with Sri Lankan Ambassador to Korea Savitri Panabokke on Sunday to discuss measures to protect the rights of Sri Lankan migrant workers following a recent human rights violation in the area.
During the meeting, the mayor expressed deep regret over the incident in which a worker was mistreated at a local brick factory.
A 31-year-old Sri Lankan migrant worker, identified only as A, was bound to a stack of bricks with plastic wrap and hoisted by a forklift at a brick factory in Naju, South Jeolla Province on Feb. 26. Co-workers filmed and laughed as he was dragged around the site.
“I extend my sincere apologies to the Sri Lankan people and the victims who may have been hurt by this regrettable human rights violation in our city,” the mayor said, adding that the city is committed to ensuring both recovery for victims and prevention of future incidents.
Yoon further explained that the city is providing a range of support services — livelihood assistance, psychological counseling, labor consultation and interpretation — for the victim’s recovery. The city is also conducting workplace inspections and offering human rights training to employers of migrant workers.
Panabokke thanked the city for its hospitality and commitment to human rights, saying the proactive support and attention from the administration was reassuring and that the embassy would work to prevent similar incidents through labor rights education for Sri Lankan nationals.
After the talks, Yoon presented the ambassador with a naturally dyed scarf, and she reciprocated with Sri Lankan tea, a gesture symbolizing mutual goodwill and strengthening relations between Naju and the Sri Lankan community there.